On the 3rd day we went to Hong Island. I think this island is less popular than Chicken island, but since I want a less crowded tour, I chose this instead. The tour shuttle picked me up at my hotel early morning and we gathered at Ao Nang pier. I decided to take the Longtail boat. Our first stop was a mini lagoon secretly tucked beyond a narrow alley of rock cliffs. Some of our guy tour mates went swimming. It was so tempting but I don't know how to swim. So to prevent any rescue drama that may take place, I decided to just stay put in the boat. We then headed to Red island (consist of red rocks) for a quick snorkel. I struggled at first as I dont know how to swim. I can only manage to float in shallow water so I was very scared for the first few minutes. I was clinging to one of the guide divers as I was scared to let go even if I had life vest on. I finally overcame my fear after loads of self pep talks and encouragements. I then decided to let go. Moments later, I found myself appreciating the colorful world beneath the waters. Being underwater is really calming for me. After the snorkel, we then went out to another island (which I forgot the name) for a short dip. Our group was the only one there, which I preferred. You can see the fishes even near the beach. The water is crystal clear! For lunch, we finally headed to Hong Island, which by far was the best place for me. It was so serene. I could imagine myself settling in that place someday, although I am not so sure if people actually live there as the electricity is only until 4 or 5pm. I'm really glad I chose this trip over the popular and crowded Chicken island tour. During our lunch, a komodo dragon appeared. At first we were in awe and think it's cute, but panic ensued after when the komodo dragon started to move fast...lol. Most of us frantically climbed on the top of the tables. I was so amused at first but I got scared eventually coz it looks like it's ready to attack anyone. Its tail creates this sound similar to that of a rattle snake, which was very creepy. I was so glad it moves slow and can't climb on tables, else we'll all be running or swimming for our lives! After lunch, I decided to go kayaking. It was a first time for me! A little bit scary for a non-swimmer, but it was so much fun! I really should take up swimming lessons. My kayaking partner was Yoyo. He is Indonesian but his family migrated to New Zealand when he was young. He's a bright fellow and is quite a traveler already. He does a lot of backpacking and solo travel. I think he will head to bangkok or some other place after Krabi. He really inspired me to do more travels and to see the world...solo or not. It was a fulfiiling day. I love this tour! Its not jampacked like my Maya Bay tour. I met a lot of people including a nice Thai lady who kinda adopted me again. She is married to a European who chose to settle in Thailand. People seem to like adopting solo travellers like me...haha. The couple were avid traveller themselves and I can see his husband really LOVES Thailand! They will be also heading to another Thai province after Krabi. My shuttle took me back to my hotel and that concluded my island hopping tours. At the hotel, I was contemplating whether to take a swim in the pool. I already spent most of the day submerged in water so I was not sure if I could still go for another swim.. :D. I almost decided to just stay in my room but the hotel's lovely pool beckoned me! I can't resist! It rained during my swim but I endured especially the icy cold water. For dinner, I decided to explore Ao Nang town. I was planning to have a massage in the hotel's spa but unfortunately it was closed with no clear reason provided. My tuktuk dropped me in an area lined with souvenir shops. I saw this street food vendor and I was ecstatic! I was dying to try street food when I first went to Bangkok but never got the chance. I was like a kid eagerly checking the wares. The vendor was funny. He asked if I'm Filipino and when I nod he then shouted Pacquiao!Pacquiao! The food were so cheap and he gave me a big discount.. I didn't even have to haggle! During my stroll buying souvenirs, I saw this massage place where lots of foreigners went in. I decided to get a full body massage. It was very cheap and the massage was very good! If I had more time I would have extended another hour. After the massage, I went to hunt for dinner. I have read about Wang Sea Food Resto so I decided to try it out. I was already very tired so I just ordered a take out and ate in my room. The restaurant is not so grand but I've read it has nice view of the sunset. The food was yummy by the way, worthy of the recommendations from other travellers. The next day, it was time to go back to SG. My heart was heavy as my time in Krabi was not enough. There's a lot to explore in Krabi. I am really planning to go back. I fell in love with the place. During my trip to the airport, I was still in awe of the sceneries along the way. Krabi is so raw and beautiful! It reminds you of how simple and beautiful life really is... So this is it for my first solo travel. I learned a lot and I enjoyed my trip! All those fears were unfounded and it is an unforgettable experience for me. I know solo travel is not a popular choice, especially in my world where most I know would jump off the building on just hearing the word "solo"...:D. But its one experience I would take again and again. I admit, it's not easy at first especially for someone not so social like me, but that's the beauty of it. I had loads of fears and uncertainties but eventually you learn to adjust and overcome them.
Solo travel builds your confidence up and its a good way to hone your decision making skills. It's a good way to know yourself more minus the opinion of others. Also, one thing I like about it is you get to plan your trip the way you want it. You get to decide what you want to do, where you want to go at that very moment. Solo travel is not easy especially for women but if you really do want to pursue it, be sure to do your research and be extra cautious at all times.
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About me:I am a Filipina, formerly based in Singapore and is now living permanently in Melbourne. Yet, I am really a global citizen at heart. :) Archives
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